What makes great wedding photography?
It starts with you, the couple. Every couple is different, and every wedding is different. For me to deliver wedding photos that every couple will love, I tailor my approach to the couple. Is it a very traditional wedding, a big, grand wedding, or maybe a rustic, informal wedding, with a boho or festival vibe? Are you going for chic and classy, or cosy and intimate?
I’ve found that these days, lots of couples don’t want to strictly follow traditions, and prefer to do their wedding in their own way, with their own unique and personal touches. Most couple just want to have a fun and relaxed day. Also, quite a few couples are not keen on spending too much time on posed group portraits, or Bride and Groom portraits, preferring to spend more of their time enjoying the company their friends and families. So I always go over these things when I first meet couples, so I can advise them on how long big group portraits take. This helps them to decide how much time they want to spend relaxing with their guests, and how much time they are happy to spend on the ‘posed’ Bride & Groom portraits, and Group shots.
Keeping it relaxed for Bride & Groom portraits
When it comes to Bride and Groom photos, Ive found that quite a few couples say they slightly dread having to do them, or say they aren’t ‘posey’ people. I hear this alot, and I get it, it can feel awkward! But the good news is, you don’t have to pose. Posing is not what makes a great Bride and Groom photo. The best thing is for couples to just be relaxed, be themselves, and to get nice and close.
My job is to find the best places with the best natural light, and have a couple stand where they are most flatteringly lit. As long as the couple are relaxed, and able to enjoy the moment, then you can leave the rest to me, and trust that I will create some stunning images for you. Think of it like this – it’s the only time on your wedding day where you are alone together, so doing your Bride & Groom shots usually ends up being alot more of an enjoyable and romantic part of the day than you might think. But if you only want to spend 15 mins on it, giving you more time with guests, thats absolutely fine!
My Style and Approach
Mostly, my wedding photography is reportage style, capturing the atmosphere, taking candid shots of your guests. I often using long lenses so people aren’t always aware they are being photographed. I don’t go around asking people to smile or to look at the camera. I just look for who has a great expression, who is smiling or laughing. Or a guest reacting to something often makes for a great candid shot. Often though, guests (especially if they are couples) will do a little pose and smile for the camera, if they know Im taking a photo of them. And if they do, that’s fine, it makes a very nice shot too. So I always give couples a good mix of all different kinds of shots of their families and friends.
Competitive, Fair Pricing
Im very aware of how many people need to keep costs down, now more than ever. I like to be busy, so Ive kept my prices very competitive. Also I have a cheaper rate for weddings taking place outside of peak season, which is anytime from October – April. This off peak rate also applies to weddings taking place Monday – Thursday during the summer months too.
Meeting Couples to discuss in person
There is so more I would love to write about, because Im so passionate about my work. I love photography and I’m very much a people person. Ive always felt its a real privilege to be a wedding photographer. But Ive rambled on too much already! So thank you for taking the time to find about me, and my approach to wedding photography.
If you like my work, it would be great to meet with you, so you can tell me your ideas and plans for your big day. Im always keen to offer couples my thoughts and advice, and experience. I can also show you a couple of Photo-books of weddings Ive photographed. It’s always best to meet a photographer before booking. It’s important that you choose a photographer not just on their work, but also someone you feel comfortable with.
I cover all areas of East Sussex, and the Kent borders, and happy to travel a little further too! Popular areas I cover include Hastings, Battle, Bexhill, Eastbourne, Rye, Wadhurst, Ticehurst, Hawkhurst, Herstmonceux.